Proper respect for Remembrance Day was lacking

To all of the local businesses that were open on Saturday, Nov. 11:

This day was not a “holiday;” it is a day of remembrance ... to honour the men and women that have fought and fallen to give you the freedom and safety that you have come to enjoy.

I shake my head in disbelief and anger that little respect is shown to our veterans, as well as serving soldiers, that have willingly allowed their lives to be put in peril in the conflicts that rage, and have raged, around the world. Shame, shame, shame. Close your businesses for that one day of the year; reflect on those who served … on those who died … those who came back alive, but horribly maimed.

You close your businesses on Christmas Day, but yet, you choose not to close your businesses on Nov. 11, a day that must be held in high regard by us, who have our freedom. Shame, shame, shame. They did this for your freedom! And more shame on the people that were shopping on Nov. 11. Instead of shopping, why weren’t you spending time with your loved ones, being grateful and respectful for the men and women who served, and died … so that you could enjoy these moments?

I sincerely hope, that next year, local, as well as country-wide, businesses will show the proper respect, humility and dignity that our veterans, both fallen and living deserve.

Once again, shame, shame, shame.

Kirby Doktor

Lethbridge